Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has once again dismissed the possibility of a power-sharing agreement with Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, amidst ongoing speculation and internal party discussions regarding the Chief Ministerial post. Siddaramaiah firmly stated that he was elected for a full five-year term, refuting any arrangements for a rotational leadership.

The issue of power-sharing has been a recurring topic since the Congress party's victory in the Karnataka Assembly elections. While there were initial rumors of a "rotational chief minister formula" that would allow Shivakumar to take over after two and a half years, the Congress party has not officially confirmed any such agreement. Shivakumar himself has openly expressed his ambition to become Chief Minister.

In response to Shivakumar's recent statements hinting at a potential understanding, Siddaramaiah clarified that no prior agreement existed between them regarding power-sharing before Congress assumed power in the state. Siddaramaiah asserted that he would abide by the high command's decision. He emphasized that the party high command's decision is final and applicable to all.

Shivakumar, who also serves as the state Congress President, has responded to Siddaramaiah's remarks by stating that whatever the Chief Minister says is final. He affirmed his loyalty to the chair and the party.

Speculation about a potential cabinet reshuffle has also been circulating. However, Siddaramaiah has downplayed these rumors, stating that any decisions regarding ministerial positions would be made according to the party high command's instructions.

The Chief Minister's firm stance comes amidst reports of internal squabbles within the Congress party regarding the leadership. While some Congress MLAs and Ministers are reportedly backing Siddaramaiah, he has refrained from commenting on the issue, reiterating that the decision rests with the Congress high command. This follows recent public remarks by Minister for Cooperation K.N. Rajanna, who criticized Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar, adding to the ongoing political tensions.

The denial of a power-sharing agreement by Siddaramaiah seeks to quell the uncertainty surrounding the Chief Ministerial position and reinforce his commitment to completing his full term. However, with Shivakumar's continued aspirations and the internal dynamics within the Congress party, the issue is likely to remain a topic of discussion in Karnataka's political landscape.